What is Yoga Nidra?

Yoga Nidra is often referred to as psychic sleep. It is a deep relaxation practice in which the practitioner follows a guided visualization of the whole body from right to left. This practice ‘anchors’  the mind to the body, so it cannot rehash the past or worry about the future. Yoga Nidra is therefore excellent for anxiety relief and stress reduction. Recently psychiatrists noticed that patients who were diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, showed significant improvement after practicing Yoga Nidra regularly.

I often add an abbreviated version of yoga Nidra to the end of my classes, as it is generally liked by everyone and it enhances the experience of Shavasana or corpse pose at the end of a class.

Yoga Nidra can be seen as an introduction to meditation. Even a practice of just 10 minutes has a calming yet refreshing effect.

The practice of Yoga Nidra is done lying on your back on the floor. Use a blanket to cover yourself when it is cool. You can also use an eye pillow to cover your eyes. If you are uncomfortable lying on the floor on your back, try a bolster or cushion under your thighs and a small pillow under your head. Enjoy!

Click here to listen to a 10 minute Yoga Nidra practice